John Ernest Ballard, 81 of Dugger, IN passed away peacefully Friday, July 5, 2024 in Linton surrounded by his family. Johnny was born in Dugger, IN September 11, 1942, the son of Ernest and Aletha (King) Ballard.

He married his best friend and love of his life, Karen (Walters) Ballard on January 14, 1961.

Johnny was preceded in death by his parents, a son, John Kevin Ballard, brother, Rex Ballard, sister, Thereesa Bogard.

Survivors include his wife of 63 years, Karen, daughter, Marla Farris (Shawn) of Dugger, IN, son, Billy Ballard (Janet) of Dugger, IN, daughter in-law Julie Ballard, granddaughters, Kellsey Ballard, Abigaile Reynolds (John), Misty Shrader (David), Autumn Maynard, Paige Price (Boaz) and grandsons, Kevin Ballard, Andrew Farris (Shelbi), Robert Maynard, A. J. Swaby, Grant J. Cox and Ayvin Wittgren, 16 great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Johnny was a 1960 graduate of Union High School, a member of the First Christian Church in Dugger, IN. He worked for many years as a foreman for Peabody Coal at Hawthorne Mine.

He was a jack of all trades and a fixer of everything. After retirement, John picked up several odd jobs including, but not limited to automotive teacher for Twin Rivers, manager of Sparks Hardware and home construction with Lonni Boyd. John had many pastimes including, fishing, tinkering on vehicles, riding four wheelers and playing with his grandkids. He was the best story teller.

Funeral services will be Tuesday, July 9, 2024 at 2:00 PM at Newkirk’s Funeral Home with Pastor Shawn Farris officiating. Visitation will be from 11:00AM until service Tuesday. Burial will follow in the Dugger Cemetery.